This intensive six-day course uses an institute model to focus on how literacy is changing as a result of emerging media and technologies. Students will learn how to facilitate project-based inquiry using a variety of digital tools while creating a project management plan for integrating digital literacy in their world of work. Participants explore topics related to Kouzes and Posner’s 5 Practices of Exemplary Leadership. Extended conversations explore how these topics connect with research-based practices for fostering skills in online reading, media literacy, critical thinking across the curriculum, and new forms of authorship, composition, collaboration, and sharing.

Participants will also attend and lead sessions in how to use technologies such as blogs, wikis, collaborative writing tools, video production, informational websites, iPads, and personal learning environments (PLE’s) to foster online learning, critical thinking, creativity and engagement. Students work independently and with others toward creating an innovative project management plan or professional development plan that incorporates the 5 Practices of Exemplary Leadership, collaboration tools and emerging technologies to lead their colleagues toward successful implementation of digital literacy in their workplace. Learn more about the Tier 2 Leadership course:

Learning Outcomes

Discuss and reflect on how literacy is changing as a result of media and technology and the implications of this cultural and technological shift for teaching and learning at all levels

Discuss and reflect on the purpose and application of various digital tools and technologies that might be used to enhance leadership, teaching, learning, and creative response in a range of formal and informal settings

Apply knowledge and skills in using collaboration and facilitation techniques as demonstrated through hands-on practical use

Engage in phases of project-based inquiry and action plan design using digital texts, tools, and technologies using the five leadership practices to reflect on implications for your own digital literacy leadership practices in your work context.

Our Mission

The Media Education Lab at the University of Rhode Island advances media literacy education through research and community service. We emphasize interdisciplinary scholarship and practice that stands at the intersections of communication, media studies and education.

Quote of the Day

Education is the point at which we decide whether we love the world enough to assume responsibility for it.